As the Gold Coast Commonwealth Games begin, we take a look at a not-so sunny side of life for athletes — life after retirement.

Athletes spend a huge chunk of their childhood and young adults lives training and competing. So what issues do they face when their lives no longer revolve around sport?

Gearoid Towey is a three-time Olympic rower and former World Champion. He's also founder of Crossing the Line, an organisation that offers counselling and other advice for athletes on transitioning to a new career.

Dr Gene Moyle is a sports psychologist who works with the Australian Winter Olympics teams.